
Brooks Glycerin 22
THE SPECS
Support: Neutral
Weight: 10.2 oz / 289.2 g (men), 9.1 oz / 258 g (women)
Stack Height: 38mm in the heel, 28mm in the forefoot
Midsole Drop: 10 mm
Cushion Level: High
ON THE RUN
Keith: The Glycerin 22 is a shining example of what Brooks does best: striking the perfect balance between comfort and support. It's like the Goldilocks of running shoes! The latest version, with its DNA Tuned midsole, delivers a firm yet lively landing that gives you that sweet energetic bounce, setting it apart from the prevalent marshmallowy fluff you see in so many high-cushion shoes. While I do love a squishy, cloud-like ride now and then, there's something refreshing about a shoe that feels solid and ready to roll mile after mile.
This shoe isn't just about cushiness; it's got staying power. I can trust it to tackle everything from a quick 3-mile tempo run to a 3-hour tour without feeling like I’ll end up stranded 10 miles in like Gilligan on a deserted island—this shoe won’t ditch you!
In all seriousness, the Glycerin 22 is one of the best Brooks shoes I've ever slipped my feet into. Whether you're chasing a PR or just logging the miles, it's a peppy, reliable workhorse that gets the job done with a smile on its face!
Joe: I’m in the middle of reviewing a handful of shoes to start the year, and a common theme is starting to show itself: new life for old reliables.
For me, this is what the Brooks Glycerin has been for a few iterations - reliable but nothing too special. The 19s ran small, the 20s & 21s featured some good updates, but there wasn’t anything that really wowed me. The Brooks Glycerin 22, however, has changed my mind. Drawing inspiration from Fall's Glycerin Max, this update also features Brooks’ DNA Tuned midsole.
It was quite fun testing out the Brooks Glycerin 22 this winter. Amidst the snow and wind and ice and lack of sunshine that comprise a Michigan winter, the Glycerin 22 brings a fresh step and a comfortable, smooth, consistent landing with every stride, helping you conquering mile after mile.
THE FIT
Keith: Overall, the fit feels slightly more refined and secure than the Glycerin 21. While it doesn’t offer the same spaciousness in the toebox, the zonal stretch of the new upper mesh adapts well to make sure toes don’t get squished into a mangled point. The plushness of the ankle collar is heavenly as it gently cradles the heel in a soft embrace that shows Brooks cares about you keeping the skin on the back of your foot. The materials they use against the foot offer a friction-free experience that minimizes the risk of blisters or rub spots.
Joe: For me, Brooks are the industry standard for step-in feel, and the trend continues in the Glycerin 22. I was a little concerned about the fit when I first put it on, the toe box felt shallow to me, but after wearing it around for a few hours, the fears of squished and blistered toes went away. The mesh upper is breathable and accommodates for toe splay.
THE FEEL
Keith: The Glycerin 22 still delivers the feeling of a luxury car under your feet - but not just any luxury car. Think Bentley Continental, the kind that catches you off guard when it rips off the line and tears away from traffic effortlessly. This new version of the Glycerin is a true performance evolution, a serious upgrade from its predecessors. The DNA Tuned midsole is still sizable with its soft outer shell and more condensed energetic core, but gone is the bubbly curvature that made it feel floaty and overblown. Now it feels sharper and more well grounded. Whether you're chasing marathon miles or spending your day on your feet, this shoe doesn't just meet the demand—it excels in both worlds!
Joe: If the Glycerin Max felt like a clunky, spring loaded marshmallow, then the Glycerin 22 is your shoe! You feel the transition from the large cell, cushioned portion of the DNA Tuned midsole to the small cell, propulsive portion of the midsole on every step. I’ve done a few 7-8 mile runs in the Glycerin 22 and the cushioning has been sufficient each mile of the run. It’s plush enough to handle the mileage and also energetic enough if you want to pick up the pace mid-run because you’re freezing faster than the kingdom of Arendelle at the onset of Frozen.
Added Bonus: on the color way I’m reviewing you can still see the shape and contours of the DNA Tuned midsole through a translucent outer layer. Because color is everything these days, right?
THE NITTY GRITTY
Keith: Every time Brooks comes out with an update to one of their core shoes, I hold my breath for a moment, wondering if this is the time they make a mistake and chase the trends in the industry. But, they have proven with the Glycerin 22 that they are still true to their roots. I can rest easy that I won’t have to find a brand new shoe for the lovers of past Glycerin models once they can’t get their hands on the 21’s anymore.
Joe: Definitely a daily trainer; felt good as a daily shoe to wear to work, but also a solid trainer if you’re looking for something with decent cushion; DNA tuned midsole does provide a little pep in your step and an easier transition from step to step.
Definitely an everyday trainer, could handle a long run, and one I’m looking forward to carrying me through the winter and spring months here in Michigan.
Competition: Gel-Nimbus, Triumph, FWD Via
THE RUNDOWN
Keith: I applaud Brooks for basically saying “we don’t need it to be as soft as an Asics Gel Nimbus or as massive as a Hoka Bondi. We can stay in our lane and continue our legacy while delivering a really solid product that won’t be for every person, but it will still work for our people!” I am, of course, paraphrasing, but it seems like that’s what they must have been thinking and I mean this as a huge compliment to the design team in Seattle.
I will recommend the Glycerin 22 for any runner who is racking up major miles or any of those hard workers out there spending hours on their feet at a tough job. I will know their feet are being well cushioned, well supported, and they will be able to make a quick escape if need be!
Joe: In a world of plated shoes, I welcome the opportunity to slow down, take it easy, and give my legs and knees a break from a super shoe or super trainer. The Glycerin 22 happily meets those needs and desires. Try on a pair today!
MEET KEITH
Running trails, training for races and leading a group to PRs is just his side-gig. A dog Dad with an everlasting love for soccer, he is one active man with an affinity for GOOD shoes. He can be quoted saying ' you only get one pair of feet, you should probably be wearing good shoes'
All time favorite shoe: Altra Torin 4 (specifically gray & yellow colorway)
MEET JOE
Joe has been running consistently for two decades. In that time he's run everything from a coach's 4X100 relay to completing 3.75 marathons to stroller runs with his kids. During the spring of 2020 he ran every street in his town in a week. Today he enjoys runs with his wife, watching others smash their PRs, and finding creative ways to give back to the community through running.
All time favorite shoe: Altra FWD Via